Eyelid surgery – also known as blepharoplasty – is the process by which fat, skin, and possibly muscle are surgically altered to streamline the area around the eyes. Upper blepharoplasty can alleviate the common problem of skin that droops over the patient’s eyes, while lower blepharoplasty is designed to eliminate the baggy or puffy look that can sometimes develop in the skin beneath the eyes.

The Procedure

The procedure is typically short. In the case of surgery on the upper eyelids, the surgeon makes an incision in one of the creases to keep it inconspicuous. For the lower eyelids, the incision may be made just below the lashes on the outside or on the inside, in the part of the lid that contacts the eye itself. The surgeon trims away fat and may reposition the muscles to create a more natural look. Skin may also be trimmed if it is too loose to reform around the new eyelid structure. Then the incisions are sewn back up.

Post-Op

After surgery, the patient will likely feel tightness, bruising, and swelling around the eyes. The patient may experience a temporary blurring of the vision or other bothersome effects on the eye. However, if the patient uses pain medication and takes steps to protect the eyes, most of the discomfort and aftereffects should be fairly mild and should subside within a few weeks.

Health Concerns

A patient should definitely discuss any of the following conditions with a blepharoplasty surgeon before undergoing the procedure: dry eyes, hormonal problems, circulatory disorders, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.